See Spain Differently in 2026

So delighted to meet representatives of Spain Tourism at a breakfast this morning at Paripe Spanish Tapas Bar, Sydney. 

We talked about areas including Galicia and Basque Country, as well as Malaga, Catalunya, Andalucia,  Madrid and, of course, Barcelona, where the tallest tower of the basilica of Sagrada Familia is nearing completion. (The recent addition of part of a cross to the tower in the ongoing works has now made Sagrada the tallest church in the world.)

Slow travel is trending on Spain's tourism menu for 2026 and, having enjoyed Seville and Zaragoza on an unplanned visit in June this year, I'm totally inspired to return to experience more sides of Spain. 

Think wandering through medieval streets and artisan quarters, eating with local producers and discovering regional flavours. Also staying longer to participate in workshops, traditions and cultural rituals, explore Spain's stunning National parks, UNESCO sites, and rural villages. 

Love Spanish Tourism's logo (see below), happy and energetic like Spain itself!  And yes, the tapas at Paripe were delicious!

More on the website here:

Spain Tourism

Sagrada Familia BBC update

Seville (Link to my blog post.)

Hotel Boutique Elvira Plaza rooftop, Seville, June 2025. Photo: AP

Fraser Suites, Sydney

 I was invited by the fantastic team at Klick to celebrate at one of the Penthouses, Fraser Suites, Sydney. I have stayed at Fraser Suites but the Penthouse was occupied so I couldn't look around. The three-bedroom apartment has fantastic city views from floor to ceiling windows and is a flexible option for those who need space or are travelling with a family. Fraser Suites and Apartments are located around the globe, located in the the best business locations and suitable for both long and short term stays for execs and perfect for leisure stays in the world's most exciting cities.
Fraser Suites, Sydney is on Kent Street, a 42-storey glass tower designed by Foster + Partners. There are 201 studios, one and two bedroom suites and two duplex Penthouses. The 20-metre heated lap pool is cantilevered over the  Regent Place shopping precinct. 



I wrote the cover story about Edinburgh for this issue, shown.

sydney.frasershospitality.com/

Kham's Sai Mae Nam Cookbook

www.bluecockatoo.com.au

It's arrived! Our new cookbook is published and available. Check out the recipes, the section on wine and Thai food and the secrets of Thai cuisine which is actually a fusion of flavours from around the world, established as visitors brought precious gifts of spices and ingredients to Thailand. Chilli from South America, for example ....
Price: $49.95 + p&p

Available from:
Arun Thai Restaurant, Macleay Street, Potts Point, Sydney.

www.bluecockatoo.com.au - email:info@bluecockatoo.com.au
The Cookery Book, 44 Sailors Bay Road, Northbridge, Sydney.